Highlighting the event will be amazing performances inspired by entertainment from around the globe. All ages will groove to live Latin music by the Atlanta Show Band and Orquesta Mayor. Capoeira Charleston will perform their jaw-dropping martial arts and the Buen Ache Dance Company will entertain with folkloric dance. Visitors will fine tune their own dance skills with DJ Luigi’s salsa contest.

The Atlanta Show Band will perform at noon and 3:30 p.m. The Atlanta Show Band has backed up many internationally known salsa vocalists on tour throughout the Southeast. Led by Enrique Mercado, who has been the bandleader, musical director and trombonist of many orchestras since 1986, this group is sure to get the crowd’s feet moving.

Returning after their popularity at last year’s festival is Orquesta Mayor, who will perform at 1:30 and 5 p.m. Multi-cultural Orquesta Mayor is made up of 12 musicians, ranging from trumpet to piano to bongo players, all of varying nationalities. Formed in Charlotte in 2006, the band’s sound features many different genres, including salsa, meringue, bolero and others.

The festival’s stage will also feature high-energy performances and demonstrations. The captivating Capoeira Charleston, a Brazilian martial arts group, will perform at 1 p.m. This ensemble’s folkloric presentation uses 500-year-old acrobatic movements, interaction and cultural musical instruments to engage the audience and teach the art form of Capoeira. The Buen Ache Dance Company will take the stage at 2:45 p.m. This Charleston-based company specializes in telling stories through vibrant performances, focusing on the African contribution to Latino culture, music and dance. Members of the company dress in brilliant costume and draw on the folkloric dances of Cuba, Puerto Rico and other Caribbean nations. Then, youth performance dance group the Grooveminis will follow, performing at about 3 p.m.

Between sets, DJ Luigi of Latin Groove will keep dancers on their feet by spinning the hottest salsa, merengue, cumbia, bachata and reggaeton hits. Festival-goers can show off their skills at his 4:30 p.m. salsa dance contest.

After visitors work up an appetite on the dance floor, they’re invited to indulge in authentic cuisine from Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean, along with traditional festival foods and beverages. The little niños will enjoy jump castles, rides, crafts and the Charleston County Public Library’s educational area at Cypress Hall.

Event admission to the Latin American Festival is $10. Gold Pass holders and children ages 12 and under are free! Military personnel and students will be admitted for just $5 when showing a valid ID. No outside food, alcohol, or coolers permitted. No dogs allowed. Wannamaker County Park is located at 8888 University Boulevard in North Charleston (Hwy 78). For more information, call 843-795-4386 or visit www.ccprc.com/laf. The Latin American Festival is brought to you by Piggly Wiggly, Southern Eagle, and your Charleston County Parks.

Main Stage Schedule:

Noon-1 p.m.: Atlanta Show Band

1-1:30 p.m.: Capoeira Charleston

1:30-2:30 p.m.: Orquesta Mayor

2:45-3 p.m.: Buen Ache Dance Company

3–3:15 p.m.: The Groooveminis

3:30-4:30 p.m.: Atlanta Show Band

4:30-5 p.m.: DJ Luigi’s Salsa Dance Contest

5-6 p.m.: Orquesta Mayor

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